Padlock

=Padlock=

A padlock is a portable lock used to restrict access to an area or enclosure or prevent an object from being removed from an area. Padlocks are widely used in everyday life in both low and high security installations. Padlocks can use a variety of locking designs, but pin-tumbler mechanisms are the most common in much of the world.

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Parts of a padlock

 * shackle, bolt
 * A rod made of a hardened material (typically steel) that is affixed to an object, usually a hasp, fence, or chain. The shackle is responsible for keeping the padlock connected to whatever it is attached to. See bolt for more information.


 * body
 * The part of the padlock that surrounds the locking mechanism and most of the shackle. More secure padlocks attempt to conceal as much of the shackle as is possible to prevent various forms of forced entry.


 * locking mechanism
 * The component that restricts the shackle until the correct key or combination is used. Modern padlocks do not interface directly with the shackle but instead use an actuator to do so. Pin-tumbler and warded locking mechanisms are the most popular on padlocks worldwide.